Two people are receiving treatment at the Holy Family Hospital in Nkawkaw after sustaining gunshot wounds in a clash between rival groups at an illegal mining site at Behenase near Awiregya in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region.
Another person reportedly suffered severe injuries to the genital area during the confrontation and is also receiving medical attention.
The incident has heightened concerns over growing violence and insecurity linked to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in the area.
Residents of Behenase were reportedly thrown into a state of fear when the two groups engaged in a confrontation at the mining site, resulting in the shooting.
The Assembly Member for the Awiregya Electoral Area, Sampson Tenkoang, who confirmed the incident, described it as disturbing and said similar clashes had occurred in the area in the past.
He appealed to National Security and other law enforcement agencies to intensify operations in the area and remove illegal miners to prevent further violence.
According to him, continued illegal mining activities pose a threat to the safety of residents and could lead to more serious incidents if urgent action is not taken.
Meanwhile, Abena Grace, the mother of one of the victims who sustained serious injuries, recounted the circumstances surrounding the attack and appealed for justice.
She also expressed concern over the increasing violence associated with illegal mining and called on the authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to book.
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